According to local media, he is being investigated due to his links with Dejan Veljkovic, an agent who was detained earlier this month as part of the operation targeting Belgium’s football elite.

Investigators suspect Maes of having benefited from dubious tax “arrangements”, in a case similar to Club Brugge coach Ivan Leko, who has been charged with money laundering.

Following his release from custody, Lokeren said Maes “can resume his role as coach”, in a statement on the club’s website.

In total, 20 people, including club executives, players’ agents, two referees and a player, have been charged as part of the probe which also relates to suspected match-fixing in a failed effort to save formerly top-tier KV Mechelen from relegation to the second division.